Science Stories 01/27/11: Tree Discovery

Utilizing technology and concrete experiences was a fun way to learn about the trees located on the California State University: Fullerton campus.  Picking a tree to focus on was a great way to allow freedom of choice into the assignment while also focusing the learning intention for the students (us).  After taking pictures of the tree at different magnification levels, we also took a needle from the conifer that my group chose and magnified it using the ProScope.  The ProScope is an amazing tool to incorporate technology easily into science! It plugs in directly to the computer and after flipping the bulb switch on magnifies the objects.

After taking pictures and examining the separate components of the tree, we created an interview through a podcast and I-Movie in which we personified the tree and allowed "Conner the Conifer" to voice his opinion on why he should not be cut down.  Since he is a droopy tree, he possessed a droopy attitude through the interview.  It is a great way to get facts across in an interesting manner.